Introduction and Overview

  • "Exercise MAITREE" is a joint military exercise conducted between India and Thailand. The Indian Army contingent is all set to participate in the forthcoming edition of this strategic initiative.
  • The 13th edition of Exercise MAITREE is scheduled from 1st to 15th July 2024 at Fort Vachiraprakan, situated in Tak Province of Thailand.
  • The last exercise of this kind was conducted in September 2019 at Umroi, Meghalaya.
  • The Indian Army will be represented by a contingent of 76 personnel composed chiefly of the Ladakh Scouts Battalion. Other arms and services of the Indian Army will also participate.

Aims & Highlights of Exercise MAITREE

  • The primary aim of the exercise is to foster Military Cooperation between India and Thailand.
  • It will mobilise enhanced joint counter Insurgency/Terrorist Operations capabilities in Jungle and Urban Environments, under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter.
  • It will spotlight physical fitness, joint planning, and the execution of joint tactical drills.
  • The exercises will encompass the creation of a Joint Operation Centre, establishment of an Intelligence and Surveillance Centre, and employment of Drones and Counter Drone Systems.
  • Special Heliborne Operations, Cordon and Search Operations, Room Intervention Drills, and the Demolition of Illegal Structures are part of the tactical exercises to be practised.

Expected Outcomes

  • Exercise MAITREE will allow the sharing of best practices in Tactics, Techniques and Procedures for joint operations.
  • The Exercise will contribute to developing interoperability, bonhomie, and camaraderie among soldiers of both nations.

The Role of Ladakh Scouts

  • The Ladakh Scouts are an infantry regiment of the Indian Army, also known as the "Snow Warriors" or "Snow Tigers".
  • Their primary role is to guard India's borders in the high altitude areas of the Ladakh region, as well as the region of Jammu and Kashmir in general.

Significance of Exercise MAITREE

  • The exercise underscores the cordial relations and military bond between India and Thailand.
  • It marks a significant development in regional security initiatives and reinforces India's role in promoting collective military engagement.
  • Exercise MAITREE will also provide a unique platform to the armed forces of both nations in honing and learning new skills, thereby contributing to regional security and military preparedness.